First SSO Branch Office opened in Savannakhet

On October 24, 2005, the Social Security Organization has opened its first branch office ever in Savannakhet province, the most populated province in the south of the country.

The official inauguration presided by His Excellency, Mr. Le Kakanha, Minister of Labor and Social Welfare. Furthermore, Mr. Vilayvanh Phomkheh, the Governor of Savannakhet province, representatives of SSO Board of Directors, SSO Medical Board, SSO Executives, local authorities of Savannakhet province, Savannakhet hospital, distinguished guests, and enterprises attended the opening.

The extension to Savannakhet is a very important step for SSO in order to provide social protection to the company employees beyond the limits of Vientiane municipality and contribute to gradually improve their living conditions. Savannakhet has around 177 enterprises employing more than 14,000 workers. It will be a big challenge for SSO to get them as members and perform high quality and reliable services for social security benefits offered.

In terms of health care benefit, the contract of health care provision has already been made between SSO and Savannakhet provincial hospital to facilitate insured persons and their dependants to have easy access for health care. According to the contract, the payment mechanism to be used between SSO and the hospital is the capitation system similar to the system used in others contracted hospitals in the central level. Contracts with district hospitals and the elaboration of a suitable referral system will have to be prepared soon to guarantee health services close to the companies' location outside Savannakhet municipality.